// blog

# Ford Mondeo MK4: Remote Lock/Unlock via OBD (Step-by-Step)

Use AutoPi to lock and unlock a 2009 Ford Mondeo MK4 via OBD. Wiring, CAN signals and safety notes included for testing and automation.

          Updated 14 Aug, 2025

          [← All posts](https://www.autopi.io/blog/)

##
        Abilities and Features

        We are specializing in connected car solutions to securely connect vehicles to the internet and gain data
        on automotive usage to help car owners improve remote access and [control over their vehicle’s functionality](https://www.autopi.io/software-platform/cloud-management/).

        The [AutoPi CAN-FD Pro device](https://www.autopi.io/hardware/autopi-canfd-pro/) not just
        allows users to be
        connected to the internet, but also to control and create actions via that, like unlocking a car without using a
        physical key. Therefore in the following article, we will highlight one example, where the AutoPi device
        connects to a Ford Mondeo
        MK4 2009.

        For this to work, the bus system through which the doors are
        controlled has to be exposed on the [OBD port](https://www.autopi.io/blog/obd2-port-location/). In our
        case, with the Ford Mondeo, the following [article](https://mk4-wiki.denkdose.de/artikel/can-bus/komponenten)
        explains that the door control is achieved on MS-CAN with a rate of 125kbit/s.

        Since the [OBD](https://www.autopi.io/blog/what-is-obd-2/) connector on Mondeo MK4 is compatible with the [AutoPi device](https://www.autopi.io/hardware/compare/),
        it is possible to decode the messages on the AutoPi and replay them.

    [
        Discover Our Latest Device
    ](https://www.autopi.io/hardware/autopi-canfd-pro/)

##
        How To Record and Play

        Build on the information on how to record and play CAN bus
        messages, the process can be
        accomplished by a couple of steps - see below. All of these actions are within the AutoPi [cloud management software](https://www.autopi.io/software-platform/cloud-management/).

1.

                Once the device is online, go to “Car Explorer” -> “CAN Analyzer”.

2.

In the second step, you need to find the protocol settings required for your specific make
                and
                model.
                For our model, the following [article](https://mk4-wiki.denkdose.de/artikel/can-bus/komponenten) explains the required protocol settings. However, the description yet
                fails
                to give up all the information and details such as payload size (#bits) and data length code (DLC) on
                our
                Mondeo
                MK4 are not provided, therefore an experimental approach is required.

3.

                Select the bus and protocol you want to use as part of your trial, and then press record. In
                our case, we have four different MS protocols. Read our [CAN Bus
                    sniffer](https://www.autopi.io/blog/discover-hidden-functions-in-your-car-with-can-bus/) guide for detailed information.

4.

                Click on the test in the terminal and adjust the duration of the recording to a sensible length. In this example, it
                lasts
                for 5 seconds. The trick is to save the file as in the screenshot below where the file is named
                “unlock1.txt”.

5.

                The device makes a "beep" sound when the recording begins and another one when the recording ends. Make
                sure
                that the CAN command you want to record is happening between the two sounds (like door unlock).

6.

                If the right protocol settings were applied for the car model you should see hex messages from the [CAN bus](https://www.autopi.io/software-platform/canbus-management/) in your file. Moreover, the
                recording
                is now stored on the device and you can play it back immediately using the CAN player on the right-hand
                side
                of
                the screen

7.

                If no message is recorded you have to continue with the next protocol settings, and name a new output
                file
                e.g.
                “unlock2.txt”.

        [Image: AutoPi Telematics Unit device]

## Transform Your Fleet with AutoPi TMU

        With our[ smart telematics device](https://www.autopi.io/hardware/autopi-canfd-pro/), you can improve the capabilities of your vehicles and [obtain real-time information](https://www.autopi.io/software-platform/cloud-management/).
        Experience seamless connectivity, intuitive control, and full monitoring of the performance and whereabouts of your cars.

        Upgrade your fleet and remain ahead of the competition by learning about the capabilities of AutoPi TMU.

        [Get the CM4 now](https://www.autopi.io/hardware/autopi-tmu-cm4/)

8.

                You will see that a lot of data is returned from the bus that finds the specific command for your
                function.
                We
                recommend using the filters. Typically, a lot of the data is repetitions, so you can start by
                removing
                all
                the duplicates.

9.

                Another option is Divide-and-Conquer, i.e. split the file in two using obd play.slice option.

10.

                If the first part works - great - repeat slicing the identified segment. If the first part did not work
                try
                the
                second part.

11.

                With the filters, narrow down the results to as few as possible. Then you can replay the commands one by
                one
                and
                see if you can find the command controlling the function you are looking for.

12.

                When you have found your command you can always resend it by using the obd.play

        Alternatively, if the exact hex message is known it is possible to apply obd.send, e.g. obd.send 048#801804092002F0A0 protocol=51 baudrate=125000

        Not all vehicles may be that easy to allow door lock/unlock control by reading the CAN messages and replaying
        the same content. However, it is possible if the door control is exposed and the reader has an idea of which
        messages are intended for door-specific commands for it to become a reality.

        **
            Please note that this is an experimental approach and experimenting with your vehicle is at your own
            risk.
        **

        Let us know what type of Automotive IoT project you are planning. [Reach out to us](https://www.autopi.io/general-inquiries/) for a nonbinding quote on your project and discuss or get inspired by the many
        ongoing
        projects there.

        Get an [advanced IoT platform](https://www.autopi.io/) now.
        To see the step-by-step guide watch our [Unlock a Ford Focus Complete Guidance Video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vevgp-mfkp8&t=3s) on YouTube.

AutoPi for Developers

        Build, extend, and integrate using an open telematics platform

        Access device-level Linux, REST and MQTT interfaces, custom event rules, and full CAN/OBD data pipelines.
        Explore how AutoPi can be adapted to your own architecture and workflows.

          [
            Explore Developer Options
          ](https://www.autopi.io/software-platform/device-management/)

          [
            ← Back to all posts
          ](https://www.autopi.io/blog/)

// hardware

## Check AutoPi Mini compatibility

Start with supported EV and OBD data. Check your make, model and available parameters before choosing PoC devices.

        [Check vehicle support →](https://www.autopi.io/hardware/autopi-mini/#mini-compatibility)

###### Hardware

## Choose your evaluation device

Start with the hardware your project needs. Software and connectivity terms differ by device and purchase option. Prices below exclude VAT, duties, shipping and optional accessories.

            CAN-FD Pro
            In stock · ships tomorrow

### Dual CAN-FD data logger

High-throughput raw frame capture on two independent CAN-FD channels. On-device DBC decoding, ASAM MDF4 output, J1939 native support and hardware-encrypted data signing - all on a Raspberry Pi CM4.

→ 2× CAN-FD · >3,000 fps/channel · 5 Mbps

→ 4 GB LPDDR4 · 32 GB eMMC + USB expansion

→ NXP SE051 · Tailscale SSH · Docker · S3 sync

→ 12–35 V DC · J1939 · OBD-II · 4G/LTE + GPS

            From EUR 599. AutoPi software included without a subscription. Cellular SIM and data purchased separately.

          [Order CAN-FD Pro](https://shop.autopi.io/products/autopi-can-fd-pro)
          [Learn more](https://www.autopi.io/hardware/autopi-canfd-pro/)

            Mini
            In stock · ships tomorrow

### Fleet telematics & OBD-II

OBD-II and supported EV telemetry with GPS and built-in 4G/LTE. Check your exact vehicle, required signals and regional variant; installation and configuration needs vary.

→ OBD-II / K-Line · EV parameters · GPS tracking

→ 4G/LTE Cat 1 · BLE · internal antennas

→ −40°C to +85°C · CE/UKCA/E-Mark/RoHS

→ 10–30 V DC · compact · fleet-ready out of box

            EUR 129 + EUR 6/month for SIM and Cloud, with a 12-month minimum. First-year minimum: EUR 201. Includes 100 MB/month.

          [Order Mini](https://shop.autopi.io/products/autopi-mini)
          [Learn more](https://www.autopi.io/hardware/autopi-mini/)

            TMU CM4
            In stock · ships tomorrow

### Edge compute platform

Raspberry Pi CM4-based telematics unit for custom software stacks. Run Docker containers, Python services and CAN-FD logging on the same device - managed remotely via AutoPi Cloud.

→ BCM2711 CM4 · 1 GB LPDDR4 · 8 GB eMMC

→ 2x CAN or CAN-FD variant · Docker · Python · SocketCAN

→ NXP SE051 · Tailscale · WiFi · BT 5.0 · GPS

→ 12–35 V DC · 4G/LTE Cat 4 · IP67 option

            From EUR 235 with the SIM and Cloud subscription option: EUR 6/month, 12-month minimum. Also available without a subscription; select your interface and payment option in the shop for the price.

          [Order TMU CM4](https://shop.autopi.io/products/autopi-telematics-unit-cm4-4g-lte-edition)
          [Learn more](https://www.autopi.io/hardware/autopi-tmu-cm4/)

      [Compare all devices →](https://www.autopi.io/hardware/compare/)

// related

## More posts you'll like

      [
        View all →
      ](https://www.autopi.io/blog/)

          DIY

          AutoPi Topics

#### Ford Mondeo MK4: Remote Lock/Unlock via OBD (Step-by-Step)

          Use AutoPi to lock and unlock a 2009 Ford Mondeo MK4 via OBD. Wiring, CAN signals and safety notes included for testing and automation.

        [
          Learn More →
        ](https://www.autopi.io/blog/controlling-lock-unlock-door-feature-on-a-ford/)

            // contact

## Still have questions?

Get in touch with us - we're ready to answer any and all questions.

// send a message

We aim to reply within one business day.

Or email [sales@autopi.io](mailto:sales@autopi.io).
